WinterStorm ENG.
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Be Red Cross Ready
Winter Storm Safety Checklist
Winter storms can range from a
moderate snow over a few hours
to a blizzard with blinding, wind-
driven snow that lasts for several
days. Some winter storms are
large enough to affect several
states, while others affect only a
single community. Many winter
storms are accompanied by
dangerously low temperatures
and sometimes by strong winds,
icing, sleet and freezing rain.
What should I do?
Dress in several layers of lightweight
clothing, wear mittens and a hat
(preferably one that covers your ears).
Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep
your feet warm and dry and to maintain
your footing in ice and snow.
Minimize travel. If travel is necessary,
keep a disaster supplies kit in your
vehicle.
Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other
local news channels for critical
information from the National Weather
Service (NWS).
Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas
tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line
from freezing.
Insulate your home by installing storm
windows or covering windows with plastic
from the inside to keep cold air out.
Maintain heating equipment and
chimneys by having them cleaned and
inspected every year.
Bring pets/companion animals inside
during winter weather. Move other
animals or livestock to sheltered areas
with non-frozen drinking water.
Running water, even at a trickle, helps
prevent pipes from freezing.
All fuel-burning equipment should be
vented to the outside and kept clear.
Cold-Related Emergencies
Frostbite and hypothermia are two
dangerous and potentially life-threatening
emergencies. Learn how to care for these
emergencies by taking a first aid class.
Let Your Family Know Youre Safe
If your community experiences a severe winter storm, or any disaster, register on the American
Red Cross Safe and Well Web site available through RedCross.org to let your family and friends
know about your welfare. If you dont have Internet access, call 1-866-GET-INFO to register
yourself and your family.
For more information on disaster and emergency preparedness, visit RedCross.org.
Know the Difference
Winter Storm Outlook
Winter storm conditions are possible in
the next 2 to 5 days.
Winter Weather Advisory
Winter weather conditions are expected
to cause significant inconveniences and
may be hazardous. When caution is
used, these situations should not be life
threatening.
What supplies do I need?
Waterat least a 3-day supply; one gallon
per person per day
Foodat least a 3-day supply of non-
perishable, easy-to-prepare food
Flashlight
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
(NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
Extra batteries
First aid kit
Medications (7-day supply) and medical
items (hearing aids with extra batteries,
glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
Multi-purpose tool
Sanitation and personal hygiene items
Copies of personal documents
(medication list and pertinent medical
information, proof of address, deed/lease
to home, passports, birth certificates,
insurance policies)
Cell phone with chargers
Family and emergency contact
information
Extra cash
Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby
food, diapers)
Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food,
carrier, bowl)
Tools/supplies for securing your home
Sand, rock salt or non-clumping kitty
litter to make walkways and steps less
slippery
Warm coats, gloves or mittens, hats, boots
and extra blankets and warm clothing for
all household members
Ample alternate heating methods such as
fireplaces or wood- or coal-burning
stoves
Copyright 2009 by the American National Red Cross
Winter Storm Watch
Winter storm conditions are possible within the
next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area
should review their winter storm plans and stay
informed about weather conditions.
Winter Storm Warning
Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have
begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a
warning area should take precautions immediately.
What do I do after a storm?
Go to a designated public shelter if your
home loses power or heat during periods of
extreme cold.
Avoid driving when conditions include sleet,
freezing rain or drizzle, snow or dense fog.
Before tackling strenuous tasks in cold
temperatures, consider your physical
condition, the weather factors and the
nature of the task.
Protect yourself from frostbite and
hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting,
lightweight clothing in several layers. Stay
indoors, if possible.
Help people who require special assistance
such as elderly people living alone, people
with disabilities and children.
Check on your animals and make sure that
their access to food and water is not blocked
by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles. If
possible, bring them indoors.
Caution: Carbon Monoxide Kills
Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or
other gasoline, propane, natural gas or
charcoal-burning devices inside a home,
garage, basement, crawlspace or any
partially enclosed area. Locate unit away
from doors, windows and vents that could
allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
The primary hazards to avoid when using
alternate sources for electricity, heating or
cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning,
electric shock and fire.
Install carbon monoxide alarms in central
locations on every level of your home and
outside sleeping areas to provide early
warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.
If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move
quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by
an open window or door.
Call for help from the fresh air location and
remain there until emergency personnel
arrive to assist you.
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